Rocco Dougherty

An avid fan of science fiction and superhero stories, former Port Washington resident Rocco D. Dougherty died of brain cancer at his West Bend home on Friday, Sept. 13. He was 35 and had fought cancer for 13 years.

Mr. Dougherty was born in Port Washington to Rocco and Judi Reas Dougherty on Jan. 12, 1984. He married Rachel Ihwail on May 15, 2016.

He was an Eagle Scout with St. Peter Alcantara Troop 875 in Port Washington. After high school, Mr. Dougherty earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice and served with the Port Washington Police Department Reserves for four years.  

Mr. Dougherty was a black belt and an accomplished martial arts instructor, who worked at Balance Inc. in Grafton for ten years.

His family said he enjoyed science fiction and superhero stories such as “Star Trek,” “Star Wars,” “Doctor Who,” and DC and Marvel comics. He also enjoyed monthly game nights with his family.

He also enjoyed his pets Annabelle and Oliver.

Mr. Dougherty is survived by his wife Rachel; parents Rocco and Judi; brother Augustus “Gus” (Hailey); sister Leishiona Dougherty; and grandparents.

He was preceded in death by his brother Peter.

A funeral service will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, at Eernisse Funeral Home in Port Washington.  

Visitation will be at the funeral home from 3 p.m. Thursday until the service.

Family and friends are encouraged to wear Star Trek or superhero themed shirts in his memory.

Memorials to the family are suggested.